PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has issued an executive order regulating the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
He signed Executive Order 28 on Tuesday that says the use of firecracker will be confined to community fireworks displays “to minimize the risk of injuries and casualties.”
The EO says there will be a community fireworks display during a special occasion or as part of a celebration, competition or similar event held in a venue apart from a residence.
The display will be conducted under the supervision of a trained person with a license from the Philippine National Police.
The concerned municipality or city will specify the date, time and area of the display in a permit.
The head of the Philippine National Police is tasked to determine the prohibited fireworks and pyrotechnic devices within 30 days.
‘‘All fireworks falling under such criteria may not be manufactured, sold, distributed or used even as part of a community fireworks display,’’ the EO says.
The PNP is also tasked to coordinate with the Department of Health, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Bureau of Fire Protection on the rules and regulations of the executive order.
These agencies are expected to enforce the EO, which takes effect immediately, and to inform the public about it.